Mesothelioma is a cancer that is generally caused by asbestos exposure. It affects the thin layer of cells lining the body’s internal organs, which is called the mesothelium. The most common form of this cancer is known as pleural mesothelioma, which accounts for approximately 70 percent of all cases and involves the lining of the lung called the pleura. If you believe that you have been exposed to asbestos, you need to be aware of the symptoms of this potentially deadly cancer.
Most people who develop mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos at their workplace. Former industrial workers tend to be at a higher risk of contracting mesothelioma, as they were often around asbestos materials. Most of these workers were unaware that they were being exposed to asbestos, even though their employers knew the materials were hazardous.
It takes many years for the symptoms of mesothelioma to surface. That means that you could have been exposed to harmful levels of asbestos in the past, without even realizing it. Some of the most common mesothelioma symptoms vary depending on what area of the body is affected and may include the following:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Anemia
- Wheezing
- Coughing up blood
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal mass
- Weight loss
- Blood clots
- Jaundice
- Low blood sugar level
If you have experienced any of these symptoms, you need to seek medical attention to rule out mesothelioma. There are treatment options available for this asbestos cancer, which should be discussed with the physician. Some of the treatment options include medication, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery.
In some cases, you may be entitled to compensation for your asbestos-related illness. Contact an experienced Florida asbestos lawyer at the Law Offices of Lilly, O’Toole and Brown at (863) 683-1111 for legal advice regarding your mesothelioma case. We are experienced asbestos lawyers and can help you recover compensation.